We love the changing of the seasons, there is promise in the air and a whole host of new colour and activity with a touch of adventure all within reach. As September gracefully rolls in, the crisp air and vibrant colours of the leaves create a fitting backdrop for a perfectly cozy getaway. Afterall, this is the ‘pause’, the intake of breath, before the explosion of the festive season! What better way to mark the occasion than to enjoy everything we here at South Winchester Lodges have to offer? We love to create the ‘ahhhh’ moments, the ones when you look round and feel utter contentment.
Since this humble season of offering brings an array of bounty in the form of delicious and plump veggies growing unencumbered in their blankety beds, we thought, why not cherry pick some equally humble yet rewarding Autumnal activities for you to enjoy during your stay?
Nature Walks – The area surrounding your lodge is full of trees donning their new colours before floating gently on the breeze ready to be piled high and jumped into just for the sheer fun of merriment! When out with your littles ones why not forage for dried berries, brightly coloured leaves and twigs that look like Stick Man to create your own collage – a perfect souvenir from your time here. There are some stunning forest trails to enjoy; St Catherines Hill, Itchen Way, Abbas circular and the Kingfisher Trail.
Autumn Themed Cooking – Winchester’s restaurants are renowned for using the very best of each seasons produce and change their menu regularly to reflect this. There are a number of cookery classes you can join in Winchester which showcase these fine ingredients and teach you new skills, so if you have a passion for cooking why not check out Exclusive Collection classes. Rick Stein has classes to choose from as well as exclusive supper invitations which share not only sumptuous cuisine but insiders’ secrets too! No Autumn would be complete without a trip to Winchester farmers market, you can select your own ingredients and host your own private dinner party from your luxury lodge. Bon appetit!
Toasting Marshmallows! Do you prefer your marshmallows floating on a sea of hot chocolate or are you more of the s’more s’more s’more orientation?! Either way, we provide BBQ facilities so you can grab a blanket, cosy up, toast said ‘mellows and enjoy some snuggly family time while watching the sun go down from your private balcony. If you prefer to venture out for your hot chocolate then we recommend Chococo in Winchester high street, full of finely crafted chocolates and a welcoming atmosphere to sip your preferred warm beverage.
Stargazing – the summer showers are gone, and the skies are left with clear views as far as the eye can see, so before our skies give way to the thick cloud blanket why not see which constellations you can spot. Night Sky Live in Winchester’s planetarium has one of the best views in Winchester. On clear nights you can see Sirius (no dementors on the horizon!), Orion, Capella, Taurus and Draco! It’s relaxing, fulfilling and just that little bit different. Time slows down and if you tilt your head back far enough it feels like the world is infinite in its vastness, a beautiful way to spend an Autumn evening.
Winchester’s Autumn markets – Winchester hosts an annual comedy festival with belly laughs enough to keep you warm and happy during the winter months. Autumn fest, perfect for foodies and connoisseurs of beer is a September favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. The festival also showcases wines and locally made sweet treats.
However you choose to celebrate the transition into this truly heartwarming and colourful season, we maintain that September is great time to get away and recharge. The lull between summer and winter is perhaps the most rewarding period where you can simply stand still for a moment and enjoy the time with loved ones. Click here for our September availability, you could be here as soon as next week!